closed as not constructive by Mark Trapp Oct 7 '11 at 19:04

As it currently stands, this question is not a good fit for our Q&A format. We expect answers to be supported by facts, references, or expertise, but this question will likely solicit debate, arguments, polling, or extended discussion. If you feel that this question can be improved and possibly reopened, visit the help center for guidance.
If this question can be reworded to fit the rules in the help center, please edit the question.

I saw that one - but that deals with how to be productive at home, it doesn't deal with the advantages and disadvantages. Do you think it's a duplicate?
–
Jaco PretoriusSep 16 '10 at 12:15

Meetings are a necessity for working in teams.
–
user1249Jul 31 '11 at 12:34

I guess that depends on your definition of 'meeting'. In my current team I haven't had a meeting in 3 months and I think this is probably the best team I've ever worked on
–
Jaco PretoriusAug 1 '11 at 14:12

I agree with the problem of having to explain it to the kids. They found it difficult enough to accept that I needed to be on the computer to look for work.
–
ChrisF♦Sep 16 '10 at 12:11

1

+1 for No clear cut difference between personal & professional time
–
pramodc84Sep 16 '10 at 12:28

1

+1. I find it difficult to focus on work remotely even when I could and end up going to office. Way too many distractions. I prefer the workplace distractions that are much easier to shut out.
–
JamesSep 16 '10 at 13:18

1

ChrisF, send them outside to play when they start doing that!
–
user1249Jul 31 '11 at 12:35

I like the ability to do both, but most companies and/or managers just can't handle it. People are more likely to think you are working while sitting at your desk looking at Facebook than when you checkin great code on time. Personally, I'm not a 9-5 worker. I like to break it up. I have no problem spending several hours with my wife for dinner or just watching TV and getting a few hours of work in before going to sleep. And I like to take naps.

Your company has to give you access to a much software & services at home as you do at the office. Remoting into you work computer is nice, but not ideal.

I miss having lunch and other personal interactions with coworkers while at home. I would prefer to have 1-2 days at the office.

I have two young kids, and they don't understand why Daddy can't come out to play with them right now. He's HERE, isn't he? Why doesn't he want to play with us? Every step through the office door, even just to the bathroom, ended up with tantrums when I had to go back in.

I also found that my self-discipline was sorely lacking. I wouldn't get as much done because of all the distractions like, oh, say, EVERY SITE ON THE INTERWEBS. Much easier to let yourself go and slack off in that kind of environment, especially if you're stressed.

That definitely differs from person to person - there's usually nobody around at my house during the day. If I were to work from home it would be super quiet.
–
Jaco PretoriusSep 16 '10 at 14:02

I certainly agree that YMMV. I am sure if the kids were older and both in school more of the day that I'd have a much easier time of it.
–
Matt DiTrolioSep 16 '10 at 15:33

I had the tantrums a lot until I diligently closed the door, locking it if necessary. The other adults in the house ran interference. Eventually my boys learned. Now at 3 & 5, they sometimes come in to say hi, and most of the time leave when asked.
–
Frank SheararOct 21 '10 at 13:05

I've worked from home since my son was 3 (he's now 7) and thanks to the measures I took from day one to help him understand what it meant for him, and how he was expected to behave, we've never had serious problems. It takes the right kind of household to pull it off, but it is doable!
–
HedgeMageNov 5 '10 at 19:38

Well if you are in a position where you are leading a Project, you will be Missed. In such a situation your availability generally speeds up things. It is time consuming to clarify a few things on email. Otherwise generally good, saves travel time.